I think the temptation to hold onto things that no longer serve us–or anyone–is stronger.

“I remember the happy times” or “I remember all the good he did” is what runs through our minds when thinking of someone who’s worked repeated, enduring hurts. “It’s OK to keep going on.”

So that, when someone feels safe from walking away from something you used to share … well, that’s a sign of having done something right. Of having shown that, though you cherish something, you will not force someone else to cherish it long after they are ready to walk away.